The Coalition Government in Fiji is currently divided regarding its nominees for the position of President of the Republic. Reports indicate that both the Social Democratic Liberal Party and the National Federation Party are advocating for the continuation of His Excellency Ratu Wiliame Katonivere’s second term. Other potential candidates mentioned include Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci and the Vunivalu of Nukunitabua Ratu Naulu Mataitini.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, in a statement to FijiLive, refrained from revealing the government’s nominee but acknowledged that some concerns regarding the nominees had been raised by the Speaker earlier in the day. He also indicated that he has withdrawn his nomination, stating, “In fairness to both, we could not make the nomination while there was a cloud over our nominees.”
Despite these developments, the nomination and acknowledgment of the appointment of the President were included on the agenda during the Parliament session this morning.
In relation to the coalition dynamics, Iowane Naivalurua, the leader of the bloc of nine, mentioned that his group aims to support the government on matters of mutual interest. However, he noted that the government has yet to communicate its preferred nominee for their backing. He characterized the situation as a political maneuver and admitted uncertainty about the names currently being discussed. Meanwhile, the Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, did not provide a response when approached for comments.